SOCIAL media came to the rescue of an elderly Leongatha man whose white Ford Falcon ute was stolen at about 2pm on Thursday, May 2.
Notice of about the theft and a photo with number plate quoted was posted on Facebook and a number of locals logged reports of seeing the car and also the offenders during an escapade through the town’s streets which allegedly lasted upwards of four hours.
Here’s the exchange on social media which tracked the progress of the stolen car and the “two young offenders”.
* Can we please keep an eye out for this Ford Falcon Ute with canopy on the back and roof racks… that was stolen in Leongatha around 2.08 today. If you see please contact the police.
* Just been following it around MacDonald Street and Parr it had no lights on.
* Are you still following?
* Nar a car pulled out in front of me and I lost them in parr at heading towards hospital.
* Just went out of work for a look. Not at hospital car park where they get dumped a lot. Hope they get caught!
* Just spotted at traffic lights in Leongatha. almost hit someone coming out of the side street.
* They first pulled out in front of us at the preschool, then continued straight to Hasset St. Came out on the side street before traffic lights almost hitting someone, Zoomed across towards the lights and that’s when I clocked that it was the stolen car. Didn’t get a chance to get a look at them. Hopefully cops take action or it’s returned safely soon.
* Saw and contacted police about an hour ago. Hope it is returned in good condition!
* Was spotted on Canavans Road just after 3pm. Had a near miss with a tractor. Please keep an eye out.
* Just seen this ute in Leongatha, went around the round about near the post office, heading towards Auto Pro.
* It just drove up Allison St in a hurry at 6:22pm.
* Be careful as the 2 young offenders who allegedly stole the vehicle are trying to avoid capture from the police and it appears that they are not making the type of decisions that rational people would make.
Reports have been received that the car was recovered and returned to the owner, allegedly none the worse for the episode but we don’t believe the offenders have been found. Police have been contacted for comment.
Report it
For emergencies, to report a crime in progress, or for immediate police attendance, call Triple Zero (000).
For non-emergencies, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
You will need the following information:
* registration number and state registered
* vehicle make, model, year, body type and transmission (automatic or manual)
* colour of body and upholstery
* engine and VIN number
* accessories fitted (for example, radio/speakers, anti-theft devices, LPG tank).
For more information about what to do if your car is stolen go to: https://www.police.vic.gov.au/preventing-motor-vehicle-theft
